Joan Lobdell was born on August 12, 1938 in Columbus, Ohio to Gordon Starkey and Virginia Hodgen. She moved, with her family, as an only child, to Long Beach, California. There she attended Wilson High School where she met Gregory Lobdell. The two were married until 1976 when she later moved to Orange County. Joan, gave birth to three boys, Scott Lobdell, of San Francisco, California., Michael, Lobdell of Fountain Valley, California and Mark Lobdell of Córdoba Vera Cruz, Mexico. Joan, also leaves four grandchildren. Alexi, Matthew, Scotty and Sophia.

Joan, worked hard, as a single parent, to provide for her family. Eventually, finding employment with the law firm of Manulkin, Tanner and Associates, for more than 30 years before retiring at the age of 75.

Joan was a beloved mother, had a generous and giving heart and loved and held her friends and family close. She succumbed to her illness on April 16, 2017. She died peacefully with her family around her.